'Brat' named word of the year by Collins dictionary

The word "brat," redefined and popularized by singer Charli XCX, has taken on new meaning in 2024 and was named Collins Dictionary’s Word of the Year, AFP reported. Originally used to describe a misbehaving child, "brat" now signifies a “confident, independent, and hedonistic attitude,” according to Collins. This shift in meaning follows the success of Charli XCX's hit sixth album, Brat, which has inspired a cultural movement.

“Inspired by the Charli XCX album, ‘brat’ has become one of the most talked about words of 2024,” noted Collins, calling it more than just a chart-topping album but a “cultural phenomenon” that has connected with fans globally. The phrase “brat summer” emerged from the album’s release, encapsulating a lifestyle of freedom and indulgence.

Charli XCX, born Charlotte Emma Aitchison, describes the archetypal “brat girl” as someone “who is a little messy and likes to party and maybe says some dumb things sometimes, who feels herself, but then also maybe has a breakdown, but kind of parties through it.”

Her influence has extended into U.S. politics, where supporters of presidential candidate Kamala Harris have embraced the term. In July, Charli tweeted, “Kamala IS brat,” a nod to the U.S. Vice President. The endorsement led to Harris featuring Charli’s song “365” in a TikTok video and updating her campaign account with a lime-green profile photo that mirrors the Brat album cover.

Brat topped the UK charts and reached number three in the U.S., making Charli XCX a prominent voice in pop culture this year.

Inputs from AFP